Meant for GoodSample

The Baker and the Butler

Read: Genesis 41:1-36

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As Joseph faithfully stewards his leadership in Potiphar’s prison, he comes to oversee Pharaoh’s chief baker and chief butler. Both experience dreams on the same night. The butler’s dream indicates he will be restored to his place in Pharaoh’s household, while the baker’s dream shows he will be hung for his transgressions. Although Joseph asks the butler to remember him, Joseph is betrayed and forgotten in the pit once again.

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Joseph’s descent into the pit of Potiphar’s prison included being “confined with the king’s prisoners” (Genesis 39:20). Although it looks as though Joseph is farther than ever from fulfilling his calling, God’s providential hand is guiding Joseph’s path every step of the way. During Joseph’s time in prison, Pharaoh’s chief butler and chief baker come under his care.

Joseph’s compassion for the distraught baker and butler once again indicates the dedication, diligence, and discipline he brings to his work. He does not wallow or waste away in prison. Filled with the presence of God and convinced of His loyal love, Joseph intentionally shepherds the prisoners under his care. Upon hearing of their disconcerting dreams, Joseph declares, “Do not interpretations belong to God?” (Genesis 40:8). Joseph immediately understands God has prepared him for this moment and will equip him with all he needs to accomplish His will.

The divergent interpretations of the butler and baker’s dreams are troubling. The butler’s dream ends with life and restoration, while the baker’s dream ends in death and degradation. Joseph has one request of the butler: “But remember me when it is well with you, and please show kindness (hesed, “loyal love”) to me; make mention of me to Pharaoh, and get me out of this house” (Genesis 40:14). If the butler is restored, then maybe he can appeal to Pharaoh and Joseph might be released from his unjust imprisonment.

Significantly, Joseph requests “kindness” from the butler. Joseph asks for loyalty – just as he is instrumental in the butler’s release, so the butler might show him the same kindness. Sorrowfully, however, “the chief butler did not remember Joseph but forgot him” (Genesis 40:23).

Apply

The repeated use of the word hesed in both Genesis 39:21 and 40:14 creates a powerful comparison. The butler’s lack of concern, remembrance, or kindness towards Joseph is contrasted with God’s never-failing, covenant-keeping love. We consistently fail to live up to our commitments, sometimes hurting or betraying others in the process. Are you in a season where you are experiencing the bitterness of betrayal? Take some time to grieve for what is lost then plead for the Lord to bring forgiveness and reconciliation. Remember the commitment of God’s loyal love towards you and pray for the Lord to soften and renew your heart.

Unfortunately, we too are often like the chief butler. In spite of our sin and rebellion, God extends faithfulness and loyal love towards us. Yet, like the chief butler, we so often neglect to extend the same mercy and kindness to others. If you are heavy with the weight of past decisions and broken relationships, the Lord invites you to confess your sins before Him (1 John 1:9). Think through specific ways you can seek forgiveness from those you have hurt and take steps to be reconciled with them.